Top 5 Sodas That Aren't Coke or Pepsi

Belushi's classic SNL skit is actually an homage to The Billy Goat Tavern, a dingy burger place in Chicago where you will be yelled at for your order, where they really do only serve Pepsi, and there are no fries, only chips.

I've checked the place out and eaten a burger there -- it's a pretty crappy burger, admittedly, but you can share in the experience that's so well known in our popular culture.

I rarely drink sodas, but sometimes, even when we know they are terrible for us, we just want a damn soda. Choices can be limited due to corporate sponsorship. It's too bad, because there is a whole world of carbonated, high-sugar-content drinks out there.

Though many smaller-market brands have been bought out by Coke and Pepsi, they still qualify simply because they aren't the big two.

snowpea&bokchoi

5. RC Cola

When's the last time you had an RC Cola? It's probably been awhile.

RC is certainly sweet, but it also has a unique caramel flavor that makes it stand out. RC Cola is the bastard offspring of Pepsi and Coke: sweet like Pepsi, slightly tart like Coke.

If you are wanting a little change of pace -- or maybe just to feel a little more Royal -- grab an RC Cola.

What sort of Texan would I be if the good Dr didn't make the list? Granted, Dr Pepper is owned by Coca-Cola Snapple, but it makes the list due to A) Texan roots and B) unique taste. Twenty-three flavors, man. That's nothing to scoff at.

When Dr Pepper is flavored with pure cane sugar instead of nasty high-fructose corn syrup, the taste is that much better. Forget the Gene Simmons-freakshow flavor Cherry, or any of the other flavor additives, for that matter. Stick with the original 23 flavors. Hard to beat when the sweet tooth is upon you.

3. Blue Sky Soda

Blue Sky is one of those all-natural, organic brands that you can find in Whole Foods, or whatever, but it really is a good soda. I'm a sucker for any Black Cherry-flavored soda, and theirs is pretty good.